ESPN’s Michelle Beadle Promoted to ‘NBA Countdown’ Host

Michelle Beadle has been named the full-time host of “NBA Countdown,” which airs on both on ABC and ESPN. She will take over hosting duties immediately while keeping her role as co-host on ESPN 2’s “SportsNation.”

“It’s the best job in sports,” Beadle said in a statement. “Did I mention that Kawhi Leonard is the M.V.P. of the league?”

In her new role, Beadle will lead Disney’s NBA pre-game and halftime shows, including for the NBA Finals on ABC. She will also host ESPN’s and ABC’s studio coverage throughout the NBA Playoffs, which includes ESPN’s exclusive coverage of the Western Conference Finals.

Sage Steele will move from “NBA Countdown” to focus on her role as “SportsCenter on the Road” host.

“I’ve had the wonderful experience of working directly with Michelle for several years and as predicted, she’s made a tremendous mark on ‘NBA Countdown; since joining the show in October,” ESPN vice president, original content Kevin Wildes said in a statement. “It’s very rare to find a commentator who can so masterfully combine intelligence, candor, and humor and she does it all while keeping her finger on the pulse of the NBA. Like a great point guard, she makes everyone around her better and we’re looking forward to this next chapter in Michelle’s career as she leads us forward on ‘NBA Countdown.'”

“The only thing better than working for Connor Schell and Kevin Wildes is being able to spend each day with all of the incredibly talented people at NBA Countdown and SportsNation,” Beadle added.

Beadle joined “NBA Countdown” at the start of the current season, and has led ESPN’s regular Wednesday and Friday episodes. She also hosted ABC’s NBA Countdown on Christmas day.